@Mitchell PetroskyHere is a structured approach to house hacking, including getting pre-approved for a loan, identifying an ideal investment property, building a trusted team, researching and making offers, managing the property effectively, and overcoming common challenges.

The free marketing is not effective in a competitive market neither is the marketing strategy.

There are some potential downsides to a TIC, but they can be an effective solution for the right situation. 

Does the effectiveness of each vary by location?

For example, with property taxes being some of the lowest in the country, owning a high-value property, like one valued at $650,000, might only run around $2,000 in annual property taxes—much lower than in many other states.The region’s climate and building standards also make maintenance efficient and cost-effective.

The free marketing is not effective in a competitive market neither is the marketing strategy.

Our membership dues are under $200 per year, so I'd say it's well worth the money to have some representation.That being said, from what I've heard we are more organized and effective (possibly out of necessity) than many STRA's out there.

As far as the SD, disperse it as usual...apply any damages and refund the remainder.

They also cost money to run effectively.   

Any damages  a tenant must pay for, unless its an act of nature or tree roots.